The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has confirmed the payment schedule for May 2026. Following the official release of the 2026/2027 financial year calendar, beneficiaries can now plan for their monthly disbursements.
This month follows the standard staggered approach to ensure the National Payment System remains stable and to reduce congestion at ATMs and retailers.
Confirmed May 2026 Payment Dates
Payments for permanent grants begin in the first week of the month. Since May 1 (Workers’ Day) falls on a Friday, the payment cycle starts on the following Monday.
- Older Persons Grant: Monday, May 4, 2026
- Disability Grant: Tuesday, May 5, 2026
- Children’s Grants: Wednesday, May 6, 2026
The Children’s Grant category includes the Child Support Grant, Foster Child Grant, Care Dependency Grant, and Grant-in-Aid.
Social Relief of Distress (SRD) R370 Dates
The SRD grant does not have a fixed single payment date. Instead, funds are processed in batches during the final week of the month. For May 2026, beneficiaries should expect their status to reflect payment processing between May 25 and May 30, 2026.
Updated Social Grant Amounts for 2026/2027
As announced in the National Budget earlier this year, several grants saw an increase effective from April 2026. May marks the second month these new rates are in effect.
| Grant Type | New Monthly Amount |
| Older Persons (60–74 years) | R2,400 |
| Older Persons (75+ years) | R2,420 |
| Disability Grant | R2,400 |
| War Veterans Grant | R2,420 |
| Care Dependency Grant | R2,400 |
| Foster Child Grant | R1,290 |
| Child Support Grant | R580 |
| Grant-In-Aid | R580 |
| SRD R370 Grant | R370 |
Key Information for Beneficiaries
Withdrawal Options
Beneficiaries can access their funds through several channels once the money is available. You do not need to withdraw the full amount on the specific day of payment; the money will remain in your account until you need it.
- Retailers: Pick n Pay, Boxer, Shoprite, Checkers, and USave.
- ATMs: Any major bank ATM (standard bank fees may apply).
- SASSA Gold Cards: Continue to work at participating merchants.
Verification and Safety
It is vital to keep your PIN confidential and avoid sharing it with anyone, including SASSA officials. If you suspect fraud or have not received your payment by the scheduled date, contact the SASSA toll-free call center.
Contact Details
For specific queries regarding your application or payment status, use the following official channels:
- SASSA Toll-Free: 0800 60 10 11
- Email: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za
- Physical Address: 501 Prodinsa Building, Cnr Beatrix and Pretorius Street, Pretoria
- Website: sassa.gov.za
